Power systems designed for the utilization of heat generated by solar-thermal collectors and methods for making and using same

Abstract

Embodiments of the present invention disclose systems and methods for the efficient conversion of solar energy into a useable form of energy using a solar collector subsystem and a heat conversion subsystem. The systems and methods transfer solar energy directly to an intermediate solution and a working solution and indirectly to and between a basic rich solution, a condensing solution, a lean solution and a rich vapor solution. The systems and methods also include condensing the basic rich solution using an external coolant. The systems and methods support a closed thermodynamic cycle.

Description

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION[0001]1. Field of the Invention[0002]Embodiments of the present invention relates to power systems designed for the utilization of heat generated by solar-thermal collectors and methods for making and using same.[0003]Embodiments of the present invention relates to power systems designed for the utilization of heat generated by solar-thermal collectors and methods for making and using same, where the system includes a plurality of solar-thermal collectors that can either heat directly a multi-component fluid or indirectly through a heat transfer fluid.[0004]2. Description of the Related Art[0005]In a solar-thermal system, solar energy is collected by mirrors and concentrated onto a heat receiver, also called a heat absorber. Here the solar energy is converted into heat, which is thereafter sent to the power system and utilized to generate power.[0006]Heat generated in the absorber can be transferred to an intermediate heat transfer fluid, (HTF), which then...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

"The present invention provides a system and method for converting solar energy into mechanical energy, electrical energy, or other usable forms. The system includes a solar collector subsystem and a heat conversion subsystem. The solar collector subsystem uses a heat transfer fluid or directly heats the working fluid of the heat conversion subsystem. The solar collector subsystem vaporizes and superheats an intermediate solution stream, which is then combined with a basic rich solution stream to form a working solution stream. The working solution stream is then sent to a turbine unit of the heat conversion subsystem, where a portion of heat is converted into a useable form of energy. The method includes vaporizing and superheating an intermediate solution stream, combining it with a basic rich solution stream, and converting a portion of heat in the working fluid stream to a useable form of energy in a turbine. The system and method provide a more efficient way to utilize solar energy."

Problems solved by technology

However, at the same time, the higher the mean temperature of the absorber, the higher the radiated thermal losses from the absorber into the ambient, and thus the lower the efficiency of the solar collectors.

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